​We are moving into the Thanksgiving season. As with any organization, the Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce has many things to be thankful for. We are thankful for our wonderful Board of Directors and all our members and all the time and effort they put in on behalf of the Chamber and the community of Ankeny. We are also thankful for the many events and programs the Chamber puts on. These events allow our members to gain valuable information and develop strong friendships and business relationships that can aid other businesses.

Just a few weeks ago, ACH Food Companies, Inc. presented the annual TASTE Ankeny EXPERIENCE Ankeny at the FFA Enrichment Center. The Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce hosts this wonderful event every year and it is definitely one a number of members look forward to each year. Over 60 old and new businesses shared their delicious food, as well as the products and services they offer to the community. It is another example of the opportunity the Chamber presents its members and its communities throughout the year. I’d like to give a big congratulations to Ankeny Hy-Vee and Treasure House for winning the most decorated booth. Congratulations also to Noodle Zoo for winning the best taste vote and to spa 810 for the best experience of the evening.

I’d like to highlight two upcoming events the Chamber will be providing on behalf of its membership and the community. This month the Ankeny Chamber will be hosting the Regional Legislative Lunch presented by CJM Financial. This is a networking lunch where the Ankeny Chamber joins with the Urbandale, Johnston, Polk City and Grimes Chambers to host the state legislators from our area to hear what their priorities are in the next legislative session and to provide Chamber member input.

With Thanksgiving coming up, Christmas will be just around the corner. Tickets for our annual, community wide Christmas Luncheon on December 8 are available for purchase at the Chamber office or online at www.ankeny.org. This year the luncheon is presented by Northwest Bank and you can bring the festivities back to those who can’t attend with a Lunch to Go. The Christmas Luncheon is always decorated beautifully in holiday style and boasts the most delicious food. You can enjoy all of this while hearing the joyous sounds of Christmas from the Ankeny Community Chorus. The Ankeny Area Chamber is collecting new mittens to be distributed to those in need this holiday season. If you would like to help, please bring a pair with you to the luncheon.

Finally, during this holiday season, please support our Ankeny area businesses and remember to shop local. If you are looking for a special gift for someone, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Chamber, we would love to connect you with one of our many small business owners. Thank you for all you do for our community.

As always, if there is anything that I can do for you or your business, please let me know.